How and When to Report Child Abuse or Neglect in Virginia

A report of suspected maltreatment is not an accusation! It is a request for the helping process to begin.

When to report Child Abuse and Neglect

Anytime you suspect that a child is being abused or neglected by a caretaker, you should immediately report your concerns to the local department of social services. You need not prove that abuse or neglect has taken place; local departments of social services are responsible for making this determination. In Virginia, anyone may report abuse or neglect; however, under Virginia law certain professionals who work with children such as teachers or medical care workers are required to report. Non-caretaker abuse should be reported to the police.

What if you're not sure?

If you have questions, you may consult with your local department of social services child protective services unit or with staff at the Virginia Child Abuse and Neglect Hotline (1-800-552-7096).

How to report child abuse and neglect

Local social services departments are open during daytime business hours and their telephone numbers are listed in the Community Service pages in the front of the phone book yellow pages. Reports can also be made to the Child Abuse and Neglect Hotline (1-800-552-7096) seven days a week, 24 hours a day.

When making a report, it is helpful to provide as much information as possible. You may report anonymously if you choose, but you are encouraged to give your name so that child protective service workers can contact you if additional information is needed. If the case is brought into court, the identity of the reporter may be revealed during the court proceedings. The code of Virginia provides protection from criminal and civil liability to any person making a report of child abuse or neglect unless it is proven that these persons acted with malicious intent.

Information needed to make a report